Two musicians performing: one playing piano, the other playing electric guitar.

How to Write Better Lyrics

Learn how to write better lyrics with the help of multiplatinum songwriter and Berklee Online author and instructor Andrea Stolpe.

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Person playing guitar

Tips for Finishing Songs

One of the most frustrating problems we experience as songwriters is difficulty finishing songs. We might get stuck at the chorus, or maybe after the first chorus.

Writing Melodies: 3 Simple Tools

A great melody always makes a song more memorable. It sounds obvious to say, but it is amazing how often we put emphasis on other elements of the song such as groove or lyric.

Chord Substitution and Reharmonization

In order to use chord substitution as a reharmonization technique, you must understand the division of the seven diatonic chords.

A person typing on a laptop.

Cover Letter and Cold Letter Best Practices for Musicians

In this excerpt from “How to Get a Job in the Music and Recording Industry,” Keith Hatschek explains how to write effective cold letters and cover letters.

Elements of Lyrics: The Great Juggling Act

In this excerpt from “Introduction in Songwriting: Essential Guide to Lyric Form and Structure,” Pat Pattison explains the elements of lyrics.

How to Play Slap Bass

One of the most challenging aspects of playing slap bass is maintaining an even, full, clear sound. Keep on practicing these exercises and you’ll notice significant improvement in your slapping.

piano chord voicings in full effect

Piano Voicing Techniques

Understanding the basics of piano voicings and the use of common tensions is a first step in creating effective orchestrations of reharmonized melodies.

Harmonic Progressions for Songwriters

You don’t have to have a degree in music theory to write harmonic progressions that underscore your lyric well.

Three people working in a recording studio.

Music Industry Feedback Breaks Us and Makes Us

Berklee Online songwriting instructor Andrea Stolpe explains how to take feedback from people in the music industry to help and not hinder your career.